MATERIAL COMPARISON
Compare the specified material, not just its name.
Pure molybdenum and TZM should not be treated as interchangeable purchasing descriptions. Start with the drawing or material specification, then compare the actual product and its documented condition.
Comparison table
On a narrow screen, scroll the table sideways. Keyboard: focus the table and use the arrow keys.
| Criterion | Pure molybdenum | TZM |
|---|---|---|
| Material identity | Mo; retain the specified purity and product grade. | Titanium-zirconium-molybdenum alloy. |
| Creep and recrystallization | Reference material in the manufacturer’s qualitative comparison. | MTS reports higher creep strength and recrystallization temperature than pure Mo. This is not a numerical design limit. |
| Product form | Compare the specified sheet, plate or rod, not a value transferred from another form. | Compare the same form and section size; a finished part needs its own acceptance basis. |
| Delivered condition | Identify the processing and annealing condition of the offered Mo. | Identify the processing and annealing condition of the offered TZM; the name alone is insufficient. |
Scope of the comparison
Qualitative comparison only. No tensile-strength, creep-life or service-temperature value is assigned: the selected reference does not provide a matched test programme for identical product forms, states, temperatures and exposure times.
Selection conditions
- If the drawing requires pure Mo or a defined purity, keep that requirement; TZM is an alternative requiring approval.
- If creep deformation governs the high-temperature component, assess TZM against the actual temperature, loading, atmosphere and duration. Its family-level advantage is a reason to investigate, not automatic qualification.
- If the offers describe different forms or conditions, obtain comparable product data before choosing. Do not set a universal maximum temperature from this table.
Sources for this table
Midwest Tungsten Service: TZM material reference (English)References reviewed on 14 September 2026. Manufacturer references identify their own materials, not an MNK stock item or a supplier partnership.
What is the technical difference?
Plansee identifies TZM as a titanium-zirconium-molybdenum alloy with higher recrystallization temperature and creep resistance than pure molybdenum. This qualitative comparison is not a guaranteed property value for a particular shipment.
Manufacturer reference: Plansee materials
Material identity
If the drawing calls for pure molybdenum, a quotation for TZM is a proposed material change, not a direct match. Confirm the exact designation with the party responsible for the specification.
Comparable evidence
Compare like product forms and conditions. A rod value cannot automatically qualify a sheet or a finished component. Ask which delivered condition and test basis the supplier data describe.
Acceptance basis
Agree which requirements define acceptance before comparing offers. A trade name, a typical-property sheet and an inspection result are different kinds of information.
A practical way to compare offers
- Keep the requested material designation unchanged in the inquiry. If alternatives are acceptable, identify them separately.
- Use the same supply form, dimensions and quantity when requesting comparable offers.
- Put the relevant operating context or drawing reference in Technical Requirements / Notes. Do not infer a universal service-temperature limit from the material name.
- Evaluate any proposed substitution against the project specification. This page does not establish technical equivalence or approve a design change.
No certified density, tensile strength, hardness, lifetime, price advantage or stock availability is asserted here. Request product-specific evidence where it matters to your application.
Continue with the material pages
Source reviewed: 14 September 2026. Original procurement guidance by MNK-G.S.A.